On Translation and Evaluation in Local Wage Setting - A Case Study on Sweden:The Local Wage Setting Process Within a Public Relations Agency

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to describe how employees are being translated and evaluated through the organizational wage setting process within a Public Relations agency in Sweden. Subsequently, this study aims to provide with a deepened understanding of how individual behaviours and performances are translated and consequently objectified resulting in a final individual worth in a quantitative scale in the distribution of wage. Theory: The theoretical framework used in this research is formed by Translation and Evaluation theory. These two perspectives were further developed by adding supplementary concepts that connect and strengthen the two main theoretical frameworks. Method: This study assumes a qualitative approach composed by a case study design as discussed by Yin (2013). In addition, 9 qualitative interviews were held on three organizational levels which moreover were recorded, transcribed and analysed in relation to the methodology presented by Saldaña (2009). Finally, the study undertakes the ethical considerations as stated in the Swedish law (SFS 2003:460). Results: What the empirical findings revealed were that local wage setting in fact is a far more complex process than stated in earlier conceptualizations. It also showed the importance of having instruments in this process, supporting the process of translation and evaluation when objectifying behaviours and performances. Finally, the results exposed that the sequences of translation and evaluation were numerous and experienced different and similarly by organizational actors, and moreover displayed the importance of classifications and categorizations. Aspects which consequently tend to steer behaviours and performances into a shared sentiment in what that is of organizational value.